We recently connected with Megan James and have shared our conversation below.

Megan, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

How did you learn to do what you do? Art is something I’ve always done naturally. In my own intuitive pull to create, I’ve been able to expand my skills as an artist. Luckily, everyone around me has always encouraged me to keep working on my art too, which has created a supportive environment for me to grow.

Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process?
I have learned to recognize that having artistic abilities is only one part of the equation, so building a strong creative practice is essential for an artist! It has taken me years to take stock in my own work imprints, and build good habits, but it has transformed my abilities as an artist.

What skills do you think were most essential?
The most important skills that I’ve cultivated in my creative practice are:

-I’ve never had a hard time hustling and working insanely hard, but I’ve learned there are wise ways to work! I’ve learned to never neglect my bodies need for good sleep, exercise and vibrant life-giving foods! I have to nurture my whole self in order to care for my artistic gifts. I’ve noticed that there can be a misconception about artists needing hardship or toxic lifestyles in order to feed their craft. I say – live like an athlete and your craft will be better than ever.

-I believe in building creative confidence! Honestly, there is a point in every painting that I just want to let it go and toss it because I can’t see how it’s going to come together. When that happens, I try to get outside for a strenuous run or yoga class and challenge myself physically so that I can tap into my knowing that “I can do difficult things.” By the time I come back to my canvas, I see it with a new respect and I know I’m up for the challenge.

-Staying inspired is something that a lot of people struggle with. I combat this by always revisiting “my why”. If I lose focus on why I’m creating, it’s time to bring back the meaning for my work. My purpose is to connect people with the natural world, so I find that just getting outside for a day can put me back on track. My boyfriend and I also go on adventures and experience new elements, which always feed my idea buckets.

Megan, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am a South Florida native, artist, writer and creative director and I’m inspired by unique landscapes and seascapes found far and near. My paintings are a snapshot of scenes like underwater clouds, desert sand and long ripples in the ocean. My signature ethereal-style works are held in both private and public collections. You can find my newest series of desert themed works at Row House Shop in Northwood, West Palm Beach. If you’re flying into Palm Beach International Airport, you can check out one of my water paintings in the gallery which will be on display until June 2022. As a creative director, I want to tell a story of the brands and lifestyle that I believe in, so I look for companies that want to put nature in the forefront of their message with my artwork, styling and creative direction. Reach out if you have a unique nature-focused project! I’d love to hear from you!

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

I feel extremely accomplished when my daughters get to witness the process of my work, leading up to sales with a client. Through that experience, they are able to see the value in art and that “wild ideas” are worth developing! My clients are so moved by my work and value my message, proving that when you put something genuine out into the world, it will resonate, and I love that my children see that.

: Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My mission is to bring attention to the raw details and beauty that exists outside, building a bridge between the human heart and the spirit of the elements. Ultimately, I want my viewers to notice the importance of the natural world. We live in a moment that is hyper focused on so many things that distance us from nature. My hope is for my work to spark an interest in what is happening out there, bringing a new sense of connection to it.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.meganjames.org
• Instagram: megan__james
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-james-67b948109/